Tools for performing less invasive orthopedic joint procedures

ABSTRACT

A tool set for preparing a joint, inserting an implant or removing an implant from a joint in an open or less invasive procedure generally comprises a set of nested tools, pin guides, jigs, and/or immobilization elements. The nested tool set comprises at least one pin and at least one cannulated tool. The cannula can comprise tangs that project from the distal end of the cannula. The tangs can be offset such that drilling removes different amounts of bone relative to drilling through a centered drill guide. The cannulated tool kit can comprise at least one tool guide/cannula, drill bits/reamer, syringe, and/or inserter. At least one cannula is positioned over and around the pin position into the joint. The channel of the cannula guides the other tools into the joint.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This patent application is a continuation of copending U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 12/072,694 filed on Feb. 27, 2008 to Stark,entitled “Tools For Performing Less Invasive Orthopedic JointProcedures,” incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to less invasive approaches for the immobilizationor fusion of joints, such as the sacroiliac joint, and apparatuses forfacilitating the procedures.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Lower back pain is a common ailment among the population and results inpain and suffering as well as loss of work time. Thus, approaches forthe treatment of back pain can both relieve suffering as well as reduceemployee sick time. Since back pain results in considerable employeeabsenteeism, effective treatments for lower back pain have both economicbenefits as well as the benefit of alleviating considerable suffering.In some cases, back pain can be alleviated through the fusion ofadjacent bones, such as vertebrae.

The sacroiliac joint is located at the juncture of the ilium, the upperbone of the pelvis, and the sacrum at the base of the spine. While thesacroiliac joint has a limited range of motion, dysfunction of the jointhas been identified. The joint is supported by a range of ligamentsincluding, for example, the sacroiliac ligament at the base of the jointand the anterior sacroiliac ligament at the top of the joint. The jointis in the vicinity of the passage of a large number of blood vessels andnerves that pass from the torso to the lower extremities. Any proceduresnear the joint should avoid damage to significant adjacent vessels andnerves.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In a first aspect, the invention pertains to an orthopedic drill guidecomprising a body portion and a plurality of projections. The bodyportion has a first end and a second end and forms a drill channel. Theplurality of projections extends from the second end of the body portionand can be asymmetrically distributed relative to the drill.

In a second aspect, the invention pertains to a set of tools forperforming an orthopedic procedure comprising a first pin, a cannula,and a form. The cannula comprises projections extending from an edge ofthe cannula and a drill channel extending along a length of the cannula.The form comprises a bore that has a size to receive the pin and anouter surface that that fits within the drill channel of the cannula.The form has a shaped tip. In some embodiments, the shaped tip forms anapproximately continuous pointed tip with the projections of thecannula. In additional embodiments, the shaped tip comprises spiralthreads along a tapered tip.

In a third aspect, the invention pertains to a method for preparing anorthopedic joint for the placement of an implant into the joint, such asbetween the ilium and the sacrum though an extra-articular recess. Themethod comprises cutting a passageway into the joint using a drill guidethat is positioned asymmetrically relative to the center of the joint.

In a fourth aspect, the invention pertains to a method for placing animplant into a joint, such as between the ilium and the sacrum throughan extra-articular recess. The method comprises preparing the joint forthe placement of the implant and inserting an implant into the drilledregion. Preparing the joint for placement of the implant involvescutting a passageway into the sacroiliac joint using a drill guide thatis positioned asymmetrically relative to the center of the joint.

In a fifth aspect, the invention pertains to a method for preparing asacroiliac joint for the placement of an implant into the joint betweenthe ilium and the sacrum through an extra-articular recess. The methodcomprises cutting bone to form an implant position for placement of animplant. The cutting is performed with a drill bit placed through acannula comprising projections extending from an end of the cannula intothe space of the joint.

In a sixth aspect, the invention pertains to a method for preparing forthe insertion of a plurality of implants into a sacroiliac joint betweenan ilium and a sacrum through an extra-articular recess using a drillguide comprising a plurality of bores. The method comprises creating aplurality of passageways into the sacroiliac joint by inserting acannula comprising a channel over pins in different bores of thepositioned drill guide. The plurality of bores is spaced in preselectedamounts for spacing the implants in preselected amounts in thesacroiliac joint.

In a further aspect, the invention pertains to a cannulated insertercomprising a shaft, a handle and a gripping element. In general, theshaft connects the handle and the gripping element. The inserter cancomprise a channel extending along the length of the inserter, and thegripping element can be configured to releasably grip an orthopedicinsert.

In another aspect, the invention pertains to a method for preparing ajoint for placement of an implant into, or extraction of an implantfrom, a joint, the method comprising placing a set of nested cannulaeinto a patient. The cannulae can comprise projections from a tip of eachcannula that are inserted into the joint. In some embodiments, at leastan inner cannula further comprises a connection for a releasable handlenear a proximal end of the inner cannula. The inner cannulae can slideeffectively freely within an outer cannula such that the inner cannulacan be removed to provide the larger inner space of the outer cannulafor the performance of a procedure at the joint.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a sectional view of the sacroiliac joint taken across aperson's torso.

FIG. 2 is a side view of the sacroiliac joint with hidden vertebrae andthe sacroiliac joint shown in phantom lines.

FIG. 3 is a front view of a model of the sacroiliac joint immobilizedwith a screw.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a nested tool set with the tools in acut away exploded view in which outer elements are cut and pulled awayto expose the relationship of the elements.

FIG. 5 is another perspective view of a nested tool set with the toolspart way assembled and with portions of an outer cannula removed forviewing purposes.

FIG. 6 is a view from the distal end of an assembled nested tool setincluding a pin, filler, an inner cannula and an outer cannula.

FIG. 7 is a side view of a pointed tip pin with incremental markings.

FIG. 8 is a side view of a ball tip pin without incremental markings.

FIG. 9 is a first side view of a cannula with two tangs.

FIG. 9A is a top view into the sacroiliac joint showing a set ofinserted tangs into the joint.

FIG. 10 is a second side view of the cannula of FIG. 9 with the viewrotated 90 degrees around the axis of the cannula relative to the viewin FIG. 9.

FIG. 11 is a side perspective view of a filler.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a drill bit for use with a nested toolset.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a depth guide for attachment to a pin.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a sizer with a detachable handle and adetachable tap.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a “gunsight” jig for inserting multiplepins into a joint.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a jig with three holes for inserting asingle implant into the sacroiliac joint with the jig secured inposition.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a jig forthe placement of a single implant into the sacroiliac joint.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a jig for insertingmultiple implants at selected positions into a joint.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a third embodiment of a jig forinserting multiple implants into a joint.

FIG. 20 is a side view of a cannulated inserter for inserting an implantwithin a joint.

FIG. 21 is a side view of a syringe for applying a filler materialwithin a joint.

FIG. 22 is a view of a sizer inserted over a blunt pin within thesacroiliac joint.

FIG. 23 is a view of a filler being used to support the insertion ofcannulae into a sacroiliac joint.

FIG. 24 is a view of a filler being removed from the SI joint after thecannulae are inserted.

FIG. 25 is a view of a drill bit being used to create a passageway foran implant.

FIG. 26 is a view of an inserter being used to implant theimmobilization element into the sacroiliac joint.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

It has been discovered that immobilization or fusion of the sacroiliacjoint can result in significant relief of lower back pain for patientsin which injury or disease of the joint is resulting in the pain.Improved tools are described herein for performing the approach,preparation and/or immobilization of the sacroiliac joint using lessinvasive procedures through small incisions to provide limited, butappropriate, access to the joint. These tools can be adapted forprocedures in other joints, such as spinal procedures at the joining oftwo vertebrae. In particular, less invasive procedures can be performedto place implants within the joint to achieve the desired immobilizationand/or biological treatment, which can ultimately result in jointfusion. In some embodiments, a set of cannulated nested tools can beused to efficiently and safely locate the joint, expose a location inthe joint, prepare the joint and provide for placement of an implantand/or other treatment/immobilization materials. The tools can generallybe guided over a pin and/or within a cannula to guide tools to theselected location within the joint. Cannulae can be designed to engagethe joint in a shifted configuration such that the sacroiliac joint canbe drilled to remove relatively more bone material from the iliumrelative to the amount of bone to be removed form the sacrum orcorrespondingly from other bones for different joints. Jigs can be usedto support the entry point for the procedure and/or to align theplacement of multiple implants along the joint, which can each beperformed using the nested tool sets. In some embodiments, the set ofnested tools can be telescoped over each other with releasable handlesproviding for selective placement and manipulation of the individualcannulated tools appropriately nested with a pin and a cannula directingthe tool, although alternative embodiments and details on individualimproved tools are described in the following discussion.

Various devices, such as bolts, nails, screws, agglomerated inorganicand/or organic materials, and the like, can be used as treatment and/orimmobilization elements. Such devices can be further used with one ormore biologically active agents. Implants are also described in thepresent inventor's copending U.S. patent application Ser. No.11/879,536, filed on Jul. 17, 2007, entitled “Bone Screws and ParticularApplications to Sacroiliac Joint Fusion” and copending U.S. PatentApplication Publication number 2008/0009861, filed on Mar. 10, 2004,entitled “Sacroiliac Joint Immobilization,” both of which areincorporated herein by reference.

Immobilization of the sacroiliac joint, spine or other joint generallycan involve placement of an immobilization element or structure withinthe joint through the gap or opening of the joint, e.g., between theilium and the sacrum. The opening of the sacroiliac joint can beapproached through an incision in the patient's back to provide anapproach with less risk of damaging nerves and blood vessels passingfrom the torso to the lower extremities. It is believed that jointcontact between worn or damaged section(s) of the joint can result inpain. Placement of an implant into the joint distracts the joint whiletending to immobilize the joint by pushing outward on resistingligaments, which is in contrast with bolting the sacroiliac joint tocompress the joint, which may unload or relax the ligaments. Surgicalprocedures have demonstrated that for many patients the pain can beresolved by immobilization with distraction of the joint. Hundreds ofsuccessful open procedures have been performed to alleviate pain throughsacroiliac joint fusion. The joint can be examined to determine whetherimmobilization or other form of treatment is desired. While thediscussion herein focuses on procedures relating to the sacroiliacjoint, the tools and procedures can be generalized for other jointsbased on the teachings herein.

In general, the immobilization can be performed either by a surgicalprocedure to expose the appropriate sections of the joint or throughless invasive approaches in which tools and implants are introduced tothe region through a cannula or the like. In any case, immobilization ofthe joint involves identifying appropriate locations to place theimmobilization elements. Once the appropriate locations are identified,the locations can be exposed in an open procedure or located, such aswith pins, in a less invasive or closed procedure, and theimmobilization elements are appropriately placed. Drilling, chiseling,tapping and/or scraping generally can be used to prepare the joint andto facilitate the placement of the immobilization elements. Inparticular, drill guides or the like can be used in open and/or lessinvasive, i.e., close procedures, to drill out or otherwise prepare ordecorticate the bone. Preparation of the bone at the implant siteprovides appropriate surface area for the placement and efficacy of theimmobilization implant and/or material as well as stimulating bonegrowth and healing that further contributes to fusion of the joint uponhealing of the wound.

For less invasive procedures, placement of immobilization elements atone point within the joint generally involves the use of a plurality oftools that can be delivered into the joint through a small incision. Thetools are guided to the selected location in joint through a cannulaand/or over a pin. Thus, the tools generally are designed with a lowradial profile to fit within the space available within the cannula. Theset of tools can function in a nested configuration to efficientlyfunction in the small available space. In general, kits or tool sets cancomprise, for example, one or more of the following: alignmentcomponents, guiding components, cutting components, delivery componentsand jigs. Alignment components can include, for example, one or morepins, pin guides (e.g. depth guides) and sizers. Guiding components cancomprise one or more cannula and fillers that support the cannula duringinsertion. Cutting components can comprise one or more drill bits or thelike. Delivery components can include, for example, one or moreinserters that facilitate placement of an implant and syringes that canbe used to deliver biologics or the like. Jigs can be stabilized withpins to stabilize the entry point for the less invasive procedure. Insome embodiments, each of the nested tools is cannulated such that thetool comprises a channel that receives the pin to ensure that the toolis positioned in a specific location marked by the pin. After the pin ispositioned, one or a plurality of cannulae can be inserted over the pinto provide a stable opening to the selected position in the joint. Thecannula comprises an inner lumen for receiving subsequent tools as wellas an outer surface that can interface with larger tools, such as alarger diameter cannula.

In some embodiments, improved cannulae have one or more projections ortangs extending from the tip or distal edge of a cannula to extend intothe joint. In particular, a cannula can have two or more projectionsdistributed to fix a cannula relative to the joint while providing anopen channel to the joint, and these cannulae with projections can bereferred to as anchoring cannulae. With two projections sticking intothe joint, the orientation of the cannula relative to the joint is moresecure. In some embodiments, the projections can be placed on the edgeof the cannula such that the center of the channel is not centered overthe joint. Using an uncentered or shifted cannula for preparation andimmobilization of the joint can take advantage of the asymmetricproperties of the bones at the joint with respect to geometry, hardness,combinations thereof and the like. In some embodiments, with the use ofthe asymmetric projections, an increased amount of bone from one side ofthe joint can be removed relative to the opposing surface of the jointand the implant correspondingly has a greater amount of surface area incontact with bone having a greater amount of bone removed. Thus, in someembodiments, a relatively greater amount of bone is removed from theilium relative to the sacrum when using a cannula with asymmetricprojections, although since the ilium is harder, the drill guide alsoimproves consistency with respect to drilling an appropriate amount intothe ilium, even if quantification of the actual amounts of bone removalis elusive. Thus, the drill guide with asymmetric projectionsfacilitates the desired preparation of the joint for placement ofimmobilization elements.

In some embodiments, a set of nested cannulae can be used. The outercannula clearly has a larger inner diameter than an inner cannula. Thus,during the procedure, an inner cannula can be removed to provide morespace for the procedure. More space may be desirable for differentportions of a procedure and/or as a result of a decision during aprocedure to use a larger implant. Placement and selective removal ofnested cannulae can be performed efficiently with appropriate tooldesign. In some embodiments, the cannulae have essentially smoothsurfaces without significant discontinuities so that the nested cannulacan easily slide onto and off from each other. However, the cannulae canhave inner threads, outer threads and/or another type of connector, suchas a bayonet type connector, near the proximal ends to provide forattachment of a handle to facilitate handling of the element. One ormore of the nested cannulae can have projections for anchoring thecannulae in the joint, and the prongs may be positioned to shift thecenter of the cannulae away from the center of the joint.

Generally, to perform the less invasive procedure, a pin, for example, ablunt pin, is inserted into the joint, e.g., sacroiliac joint, such aswith the help of imaging. The pin can be used to guide a series ofcannulated instruments into the joint. A blunt pin can be replacedduring the procedure with a sharp pin that can be placed safely deeperinto the joint once the position of the initial pin is checked withimaging. Each of the cannulated instruments comprises a channel thatreceives the pin. One or a plurality of cannulae can be placed based onthe positioning of the pin and provides access to the sacroiliac joint.In some embodiments, the cannulae can be delivered over a sizer tofacilitate a desirable orientation into the joint. Additional steps ofthe procedure can be performed within the central lumen of a cannula,including, for example, cutting a passageway into the joint for theimplant and placing the implant and filler material into the joint.Cutting tools for creating the passageway and inserters and syringes forplacing the implant and material can be guided into the joint, e.g., thesacroiliac joint, by being inserted over the pin and within the cannula.In some embodiments, the pin can be removed with the cannula inposition, such that the cannula provides guidance to the joint.

To place additional implants, this procedure can be repeated. Forexample, for immobilization of the sacroiliac joint, the initial implantlocation can be displaced a selected distance generally from about 10 toabout 25 mm from the center of the initial implant between pins markingthe edges of the joint along a patient's back. In some embodiments, therelative positioning of additional implants and corresponding tools maybe aided by jigs that are designed to orient several implantationprocedures based on the structure of the jig. The jigs can be used toplace multiple pins and/or multiple cannulated tools into the jointsequentially or with procedures overlapping in time. In general, aplurality of implants can be used to immobilize the joint, such as twoimplants, three implants or more than three implants.

A wide range of immobilization elements is suitable for immobilizing thejoint, e.g., SI joint, either alone or in combination. For example, theimmobilization element can be a nail, a screw, a dart, a wedge, a shim,a cage, agglomerated inorganic and/or organic material, or the like orcombinations thereof. Screws can be effectively used based anchoring thescrew within the joint. Suitable screws can be solid, cannulated orhollow, although hollow screws can facilitate bone in-growth and maycontain other elements such as biological agents that can furtherstimulate bone in-growth. The threads of the screw grip the bone oneither side of the joint to further the immobilization of the joint.Thus, screws with sharp and/or pointed threads can be effective.Similarly, a non-uniform thread can improve the gripping while providingfor effective implantation of the screw. In some embodiments, a screwcan be tapered along the threads by about 2 degrees to about 10 degreesor more to facilitate implantation and/or the gripping function. Aself-tapping screw with one or more flutes or the like can be used, suchthat pre-drilling or tapping may not be used.

Implantation elements can be formed, for example, from biocompatiblematerial. Biocompatible metals, polymers, and/or composites, forexample, can be effectively used. In particular, titanium elementsgenerally yield desirable results for interfacing with bones. Similarly,metal powder, such as powders of titanium or titanium compositions withappropriate particle size, can be formed into composites with polymersto form desired immobilization elements. In addition, synthetic bonematerials and/or sterile bone materials, either allograft or xenograftmaterials, can be used to form the implantation elements. Suitablesynthetic bone material includes, for example, coral and calciumcompositions, such as hydroxyapatite, calcium phosphate and calciumsulfate. Bone material can also be placed into other areas of the jointseparately to further stimulate bone growth that can lead to fusion ofthe bone in the post operation period.

The immobilization elements can further comprise one or morebiologically active agents that facilitate the stabilization of theimmobilized joint. For example, the biologically active agent can becoated onto the exterior of the immobilization element and/or appliedfor gradual release such as by blending in a bioresorbable polymer thatreleases the biologically active agent or agents in an appropriate timedependent fashion as the polymer degrades within the patient.Furthermore, bioactive agents can be placed directly into the incisionusing a suitable carrier and/or support material to stimulate desiredhealing processes. Suitable biologically active agents include, forexample, bone growth stimulating agents, such as bone morphogenicprotein (BMP) and suitable cytokines. BMP mediates the formation andhealing of bone, cartilage, tendon and other bone related tissues. Onehuman BMP polypeptide is described in detail in Published U.S. PatentApplication Serial Number 2003/032098 to Young et al., entitled “BoneMorphogenic Protein,” incorporated herein by reference. Similarly,cytokines can be effective to stimulate bone marrow growth. A humancytokine, human chemokine alpha 2, is described in U.S. Pat. No.6,479,633 to Ni et al., entitled “Chemokine Alpha 2,” incorporatedherein by reference.

For either more open techniques and/or less invasive techniques, one ormore immobilization points can be identified, for example, from an imageusing x-ray or other imaging technique, based on appropriate positioningof the adjacent bones and appropriate anchoring to effect theimmobilization and ligamentotaxis. Once the points are identified, oneor more guide pins may or may not be used to mark the immobilizationpoints as well as the ends of the joint along the patient's back. Ifguide pins are used, they can be inserted into position to guidedrilling and/or placement of immobilization elements. X-rays can betaken with the guide pins in place to verify proper placement. Also,x-rays and/or other imaging approaches can be used before and/or duringpin placement for virtual imaging. Placement of a guide based on a CTimage for back surgery is described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,175,758 toKambin, entitled “Method For Percutaneous Arthroscopic Disc Removal,Bone Biopsy And Fixation Of the Vertebrae,” incorporated herein byreference.

The improved approaches described herein provide for effective,reproducible, efficient and safe procedures for the immobilization ofjoint, e.g., the SI joint. The procedures are systematic such that lessexperienced surgeons can effectively perform the procedures withsatisfactory outcomes. The use of less invasive procedures can providefor more rapid recovery of the patient and a quicker return to normalactivity. Kits can provide a convenient and efficient approach fordistributing tools for the performing sacroiliac joint immobilization ineither a more open or less invasive/close procedure. The kits cancomprise one or more tools and/or sizes of tools for use in a procedure.Closed procedures using nested tools as described herein have beenperformed on several patients with very successful results and rapidrecovery periods based on the limited follow up available to date.

I. Joint Immobilization

Referring to FIG. 1, the SI joint 104 is located between the sacrum 100at the base of the spine and the ilium 102, the upper bone of thepelvis. Various ligaments support the SI joint 104 by connecting thesacrum 100 and the ilium 102. The extra-articular recess 106 between thesacrum 100 and ilium 102 forms an entrance into the SI joint 104 fromthe back of the patient. The approach to the SI joint from the backthrough the extra-articular recess is convenient since significant bloodvessels and nerves can be avoided.

Referring to FIG. 2, walking and other movement apply torque andtranslational forces on the SI joint 104. As shown in FIG. 2, SI joint104 is shown with phantom lines between the spine 108 and the pelvis110. Ligaments limit the actual movement of the joint. Even with limitedmovement, these forces on the SI joint can result in pain if there isinjury or disease. While the joint looks relatively stable, the SI jointsupports the weight of the torso, which is transferred to the legs.Immobilization of the SI joint can relieve pain in appropriatecircumstances. FIG. 3 shows schematically immobilization of the SI joint104 using a simple screw 112. The screw 112 is inserted into the SIjoint 104 between the sacrum 100 and the ilium 102 with an approachthrough the extra-articular recess. Placement of a screw from thisorientation through the extra-articular recess into the opening of thejoint between the sacrum and the ilium distracts the joint with tensionon the supporting ligaments, which has been suggested to provide stableand symptom relieving joint immobilization and possibly fusion uponhealing.

The extra-articular region adjacent the SI joint along the patient'sback involves a narrowing between the adjacent bones. Thus, theextra-articular recess can itself contribute to the immobilizationprocess as well as fusion from bone growth stimulation and healing. Forpractical purposes as well as for the discussion herein, theextra-articular region of the SI joint adjacent the joint can beconsidered part of the joint since it can contribute to immobilization.

While the discussion herein focuses on the SI joint, some of the toolscan be used effectively to facilitate procedures on other joints. Forexample, disc joints are asymmetric with one disc surface beingrelatively flat and an opposing disc surface being curved. Thus,drilling into the joint between two disks for disc fusion can beadvantageously performed using a drill guide that is shifted relative tothe center of the joint. Other joints similarly have an asymmetric bonestructure at the joint that can advantageously be drilled using theasymmetric drill guides described herein.

II. Tools for Sacroiliac Joint Immobilization

In some embodiments of particular interest, the tools for the sacroiliacjoint immobilization are designed for efficient, accurate, safe and lessinvasive procedures for the immobilization of the joint. However, someof the improved components, combinations and procedures can be used foropen procedures as well as in less invasive procedures. Combinations oftools for a particular procedure can be conveniently arranged in a kitsuch that tools to be used together are available to thephysician/health care professional performing the procedure. Inaddition, the tools can be used to facilitate the delivery of abiological agent to facilitate the beneficial effects of the procedure.

The tools can be generally classified as jigs, nested access tools andimplantable elements. Jigs are elements that remain closer to thesurface of the patient for alignment and support purposes, and in someembodiments can be used for the relative positioning of multipleimplants. The nested tools are used for location of the joint,preparation of the joint for immobilization and for guiding implants andother implantable elements into the joint to contribute to healing andimmobilization. Implantable elements refer to mechanical implants andother materials and structures for delivery into the joint to facilitateimmobilization.

For the performance of some embodiments of the immobilizationprocedures, a set of tools can be tracked along an access path accordingto a nested format to perform the procedure. The tool set generallycomprises a set of nested tools that can work cooperatively with jigs,and/or immobilization elements. The nested tool set generally comprisesan alignment component (e.g. pins, sizers, depth guides, and the like),a guiding component (e.g. cannulae/tool guides, fillers, and the like),a cutting component (e.g. drill bits/reamers, and the like), and adelivery component (e.g. syringes, inserters, and the like).

A. Nested Tool Set

The tools in the nested tool set cooperate with one another in a nestedfashion, which implies that the respective tools can be inserted in aroughly collinear fashion based on a selected position of the joint. Theguiding components, cutting components, and delivery components areappropriately sized and cannulated, comprising a channel to enablenesting. The cutting and delivery components are guided into the SIjoint by the locations of pins and/or cannulae. In some embodiments,each of the cutting and delivery components comprises a channel forreceiving the pin and a diameter that can fit within the channel of thecannula. In some embodiments, the tools of the nested tool set can havecooperating stops to prevent plunging or over penetration.

1. Alignment Components

Alignment components are instruments used to identify the locations atwhich a passageway is to be created within the SI joint to implant theimmobilization elements. A single or a plurality of alignment componentscan be used in a procedure to provide a single or plurality of implantswithin the SI joint. Suitable alignment components include, for example,pins and pin guides, e.g. depth guides and sizers.

a. Pins

The pin comprises a shaft with a proximal end and a tip at a distal end.The shaft of the pin can be provided with or without incrementalmarkings to gauge the depth at which the pin is inserted. The tip of thepin can be either blunt or pointed, with a selected degree of sharpness.In some embodiments, the tip, the shaft and/or a portion of the shaft ofthe pin can be threaded. The shaft and tip can have different or thesame cross sectional shape relative to the axis of the pin, such as acircular cross section, oval cross section, rectangular cross section,triangular cross section, or other desired shape. The pin can be formedfrom a selected combination of these characteristics for the shaft andtip. For example, FIG. 7 shows a pointed pin 510 provided withincremental markings 514, and FIG. 8 shows a blunt pin 520 withoutincremental markings. In FIG. 7, the distal end 512 of the pin ispointed and sharp. In FIG. 8, the distal end 522 of the pin is generallyrounded or ball-shaped, such that it presents a blunt tip.

Pins can be formed from a metal or a metal composite, such as ametal/polymer composite or a metal/ceramic composite, to provide forimaging of pin placement using x-rays or other suitable imagingprocedure. In particular, suitable pins can be formed from titanium,stainless steel or other biocompatible metals such as various alloys,such as Nitinol®, a nickel-titanium alloy, used in forming implantablemedical components. The pin can have a diameter along the shaft portionfrom about 1.5 mm to about 4.0 mm, or larger and in further embodimentsfrom about 2.0 mm to about 3.2 mm. A person of ordinary skill in the artwill recognize that additional ranges of diameters within the explicitranges above are contemplated and are within the present disclosure.

b. Depth Guides

A depth guide can prevent over penetration of the pin into the SI joint.While the depth guide can be used to place initial or subsequent pinsinto the SI joint, the depth guide is particularly useful when placingan initial pin (e.g. blunt pin) into the SI joint. Based on images ofthe SI joint, the health professional can place a depth guide at aparticular place on a pin to prevent accidental over insertion of thepin, which can cause damage to nerves or blood vessels. As shown in FIG.13, the depth guide 600 comprises a body portion 602 forming a channel604 that receives the pin 500. The channel is sized to securely graspthe pin yet allow sufficient clearance for sliding the depth guide alongthe pin. A side opening 606 can be provide access to the channel toallow the pin to be slipped into channel along its body portion insteadof inserting one end of the pin into the channel. The body portioncomprises a bolt 608 adapted to engage with a hex wrench or other driverfor tightening the depth guide onto the pin. Other fasteners, such as aclamp, or bolt configurations can be used to secure the depth guide tothe pin at a desired location. The body portion can have various shapes,as desired such that the depth guide does not advance into the incision.

c. Sizers

The sizer provides for estimates for implant sizes as well as centersthe pin within the SI joint, and the sizer can be used to guide areplacement pin into the SI joint following removal of an initial pin.By evaluating the size of the joint in the vicinity of an implant, thehealth professional can select the proper size drill bit and implantwith a reduce likelihood of the implant improperly gripping the jointduring deployment.

The sizer generally comprises a shaft with a first end and a second endand with a channel extending the length of a shaft that can receive apin. The first end can comprise a handle, and the second end cancomprise a tapered tip, e.g., helical thread. In general, the handle canhave any reasonable shape. The shaft can have cross section with aselected shape, such as a circular cross section, oval cross section,rectangular cross section, triangular cross section, or other desiredshape. The handle and/or tapered tip can be integral with or reversiblydetachable from the shaft. If the handle is removed, additional toolscan be placed over the shaft. The reversible attachment of the tipprovides for the substitution of different size tips for use with thesame shaft and handle. The tapered tip should have a shape that providesfor progressive entry into the joint. Suitable tip shapes include atapered helical shape or other appropriately tapered shape with orwithout threads.

Referring to FIG. 14, a tubular sizer 710 comprises a shaft 712, ahandle 714 and a tapered tip 718. Handle 714 is connected to the firstend of shaft 712, and tapered tip 718 is connected to a second end ortip of the shaft. A channel 716 runs throughout the length of theassembled sizer from the tapered tip 718, into the shaft 712, andthrough the handle 714. In this embodiment, handle 714 forms a “T” withthe shaft for gripping and rotating the device by hand. Shaft 712comprises a first connector element 717 at its second end. Tapered tip718 has a second connector element 719 and a pointed second end providedwith threads in a corkscrew configuration for inserting through theextra-articular recess and into SI joint. First connector element 717 onshaft 712 interfaces with a second connector element 719 on tapered tip718 to connect the tapered tip onto the shaft for use. First connectorelement 717 and second connector element 719 can be mated threads,respective elements of a bayonet fastener or other reasonable matedfastener elements to provide for releasable attachment of the taperedtip onto the shaft. A set of tools can comprise tapered tips withdifferent sizes, such as 2, 3, 4 or more different sizes. A particularsize tapered tip generally corresponds with a corresponding implant sizeavailable for use. In one embodiment, the tools comprise four taperedtip sizes with an approximate range of tapered tip diameter over thelength of the tip in the following ranges: 1. 10-13 mm, 2. 12-15 mm, 3.14-17 mm and 4. 16-19 mm. A person of ordinary skill in the art willrecognize that additional ranges of tapered tip diameters within theexplicit ranges above are contemplated and are within the presentdisclosure.

2. Guiding Components

Generally, guiding components include, for example, cannulae used toguide tools, immobilization elements, and/or the like at a site withinthe SI joint. In some embodiments, cannulae can compriseprojections/tangs that extend from the distal end of the cannula forinsertion into the joint. Suitable guiding components can also includeaccessories that help position the cannulae into the joint, such asfillers that internally support the cannula while the cannula ishammered or otherwise driven into place.

Referring to FIGS. 4-6 a set of nested tools 200 comprises an innercannula 320 adapted to be inserted within an outer cannula 340 and acannulated tool 400 adapted to be received within both the outer cannula340 and inner cannula 320 and inserted over a pin 500. Referring to FIG.4, the individual tools of the nested tool set are in an explodedconfiguration with the cannulae cut and pulled apart to expose innerstructural relationships. Referring to FIG. 5, the nested tool set ofFIG. 4 is in a partially assembled configuration in which a filler 400is placed within an inner cannula 320 and an outer cannula 340 ispartially inserted over the inner cannula with portions of the outercannula removed for visualization purposes. FIG. 6 shows an end view ofthe nested tool set in an assembled configuration with the view from thedistal tip end.

a. Cannulae/Tool Guides

Cannulae form a passageway for performing subsequent steps of theprocedure. The cannula comprises a channel through which a pin and/orsizer already positioned within the SI joint can be received. Thus, thechannel can also receive subsequent cannulated cutting and deliverycomponents with such components sliding into the channel. In someembodiments, a cannulated cutting or delivery component can be guidedinto the SI joint by both the cannula and the pin with a channel of thecomponent receiving a pin while the component is inserted within thechannel of the cannula. Although one cannula may be used, two or morenested cannulae, including an outer cannula and an inner cannula, may beused to give flexibility as to the size of tools introduced through thecannulae into the SI joint. In general, the cannulae can be designed fornesting through the use of relatively smooth surfaces along the innerand outer surfaces. In particular, generally the cannulae do not havecollars that would interfere with nesting of adjacent cannulae. Thecannulae can have inner threads, outer threads, a bayonet connectorand/or other fittings or connectors to provide for the attachment ofhandles, grips or temporary collars to facilitate placement and/orremoval of a selected cannula.

Generally, the inner cannula 320 fits or nests within the outer cannula340. Referring to FIG. 4, each of the inner cannula 320 and outercannula 340 generally comprises body portions 322, 342, respectively,which form central channels. A plurality of projections/tangs 324, 344extend from the distal end of the body portion 322 of inner cannula 320and projections/tangs extend from body portion 342 of outer cannula 340.The tangs extend from a first end positioned at the distal end of thebody portion. In general, the shape of the tangs can be selected to fitinto the SI joint as guided by a pointed tip. As shown in FIG. 4, tangs324 are formed through the removal of material from a cylindricalstructure such that the tangs follow the natural curves of cannula bodyportion 322, although in other embodiments, tangs can be welded orotherwise attached to the body portion. Similarly, the tangs can havedifferent shapes, although the effective tip is generally pointed andthe edges are appropriate to support the joint.

The projections of the cannulae with tangs generally can have a lengthfrom about 0.25 centimeters to about 3.0 centimeters and in furtherembodiments from about 0.5 centimeters to about 2.0 centimeters. Thetangs can have a projected width in a side view from about 3 mm to about15 mm, and in further embodiments from about 5 mm to about 10 mm. Theprojected width corresponds approximately with the spacing of the SIjoint at the tang once the tang is inserted in the joint. The width “w”is marked in FIG. 9. The joint 330 with the tangs inserted is shown inFIG. 9A. In some embodiments, projections 324, 344 displace the centerof the channel of the cannulae differentially to a side, generallytoward the ilium, such that cutting occurs toward the harder ilium bonerather than the softer sacrum bone, while preserving more bone of thesacrum. Other corresponding shifts can be selected for other joints. Thedisplacement of the cannulae can be evaluated as the distance from thecenter point in the joint with the tangs within the joint as noted witha “p” in FIG. 9A relative to the axis corresponding with the center lineof the cannula. This relative distance can range, for example, fromabout 0.5 mm to about 5.0 mm, and in further embodiments from about 1.0mm to about 3.0 mm. A person of ordinary skill in the art will recognizethat additional ranges of dimensions within these explicit ranges arecontemplated and are within the present disclosure.

As shown in FIGS. 6, 9, and 10, the projections 324, 344 areasymmetrically distributed relative to the central passage to providefor the displacement of the cannula. Referring to FIG. 6, theprojections 324, 344 and cannulated filler 400 are off center relativeto the cross sectional shapes formed by the nesting of the inner andouter cannulas 320, 340. In other words, the projections 324, 344 areunevenly spaced around the respective inner 320 and outer 340 cannulae.FIG. 9 shows each of the projections 324, 344 are asymmetricallydistributed around the circumference of the cannulae. FIG. 10 shows thegaps formed between the projections 324, 344 are of unequal portions.The different spacings between the tangs on the two sides of the tangscreate projections unevenly spaced around the distal end of the bodyportion of the cannula.

The central passage 322, 342 formed by the inner cannula 320 and outercannula 340 provides a space for the introduction of appropriate toolsto complete the procedure while the walls of the cannula provideprotection for the surrounding tissue. In some embodiments, the innerwall of the central passage of each cannula can include a depth stop toalign the cannulae and a cutting component relative to one another. Thecannula or its distal end can be tapered.

The cannulae can come in a variety of lengths and exterior and interiorsurface diameters, dependent on the needs of the devices used for theprocedure. The cannula generally has an outer diameter of no more thanabout 2.5 centimeters (cm), and the wall of the cannula can be as thinas suitable with the device having the desired mechanical strength. Thedimensions of the cannulae generally are selected to correspond with theset of available implant sizes such that the implants can beappropriately delivered. In some embodiments, a set of implants can haveits largest outer diameters being from about 8 to about 30 mm, and oneset of six implants have their largest outer diameters being 10, 12, 14,16, 18 and 20 mm respectively. Corresponding cannulae can have innerdiameters from about 8.5 to about 30.5 mm and in an example embodimentwith six implant sizes, suitable values of inner diameters are about10.5, 12.5, 14.5, 16.5, 18.5 and 20.5 mm, although somewhat differentclearance values between the cannulae and the implants can be used ifdesired. The outer diameters of the cannulae can be roughly 1-2 mmgreater than the inner diameters. The cannulae have a sufficient lengthto reach the SI joint and extend outward from the patient's skin. Thus,cannulae can have lengths, for example, from about 9 cm to about 20 cm.A person of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that additionalranges of dimensions within the explicit ranges above are contemplatedand are within the present disclosure. With a nested set of cannulae,the cannulae with smaller diameters can have a somewhat longer lengthsince the smaller cannulae can enter the joint a greater distance. Thecannulae can have a circular cross section, oval cross section,rectangular cross section or other desired shape that provides thedesired channel. The cross sectional shape and size can vary over thelength of the cannula.

The cannula provides the passageway for the placement and insertion ofthe immobilization element, as well as for performing drilling/cuttingor other preparatory work for appropriate embodiments. Introduction ofvarious tools, implants and other devices necessary to immobilize ajoint, e.g., the sacroiliac joint, are facilitated through the cannulae.Cannulae are typically formed from metals, such as stainless steel,titanium or combinations thereof, metal composites or polymers, such aspolyesters.

b. Fillers

A tool with a wedge shaped tip can also be useful to place the cannulaeinto the joint. The filler can provide support for the cannulae whilecannulae are hammered into place to inhibit bending of the cannula ortangs. Referring to FIG. 11, filler 410 comprises a channel 416 that canbe inserted over a pin for guiding purposes and a collar 418 that canfacilitate removal of the filler. Filler 410 can fill the interior lumenof a cannula with the wedge tip aligning with the tangs of the cannulasuch that the wedge enters the joint along with the tangs. Thus, thewedge has the same off center displacement of the tangs so that theelements can enter the joint at adjacent points. A mallet or the likecan be used to hammer on the filler to drive the filler and thecorresponding cannula(e) into the SI joint.

3. Cutting Components

Preparation of the joint can involve opening the joint for the placementof the immobilization element and/or preparation of the bone surface forhealing following immobilization. Using the tool guides discussed above,the cutting component can open up a hole or passageway for insertion ofan implant and/or implantation material. The cutting components can alsobe used to remove an implant from the sacroiliac joint. As shown in FIG.12, suitable cutting components 400 can include, for example, areamer/drill bit 420. The cutting components 400 generally can becannulated with a channel for insertion over a pin.

The cutting components can be foamed from suitable metals, such asstainless steel and titanium, although some other hard materials can beused. The cutting elements have an appropriate dimension to prepare thejoint for placement of the immobilization element. For less invasiveprocedures, the elements have a suitable dimension for use through acannula.

For performing procedures within a cannula, a drill bit generally isused to cut away the bone to create a passageway for the cannula and/orimplant. Referring to FIG. 12, a drill bit 420 comprises a shaft 422, adrill bit tip 424, and a channel 426 extending within the cutting toolfor receiving a pin. In some embodiments, shaft 422 can compriseinwardly stepped sidewalls defining a plurality of segments with smallercross-sections from one end of the reamer to the drill bit tip 424.Drill bit 420 can work in conjunction with a drill to provide access tothe joint by the immobilization elements. The drill can comprise amanual drill, such as a handle or torque transmitter, or a motorizeddrill, such as power drills used in the orthopedic arts. The shaft atits largest cross sectional dimension can be generally cylindrical witha diameter slightly less than the inner diameter of the cannula suchthat the drill bit remains roughly centered during use while stillfitting within the cannula.

The drill bit tip 424 at the distal end of the shaft can be comprised ofa plurality of flutes, threads, or cutting edges, which assist in thedrilling process. In addition, the drill bit can have length markingsalong the drill bit shaft that assist in determining the depth to whichthe drill bit has entered the substance being drilled. The proximal endof the drill bit can be adapted to attach to a drill instrument. Thedrill bit can attach to the drill at the shaft or with a chuck. Drillbits can be formed from a metal or metal composite, and are often formedfrom stainless steel, titanium or tungsten carbide. The diameter of thedrill bit tip is generally slightly less than the diameter of acorresponding immobilization element. The drill bit has a sufficientlength for attachment to the drill while reaching into the SI joint.

While the drill and drill bit can be used for inserting the implant, thedrill and drill bit can be adapted for removing the implant. The drillbit can have reverse flutes, threads, or cutting edges that thread intoand grips the implant and turns the implant in a reverse directionrelative to its insertion, to remove the implant.

4. Delivery Components

Generally, delivery components are used to deliver immobilizationelements and/or immobilization material into the SI joint. Suitabledelivery components include, for example, inserters, syringes, or thelike.

a. Inserters

Inserters can be used to place the implant within the SI joint.Inserters can be cannulated, comprising a channel for receiving a pinalready positioned within the SI joint. FIG. 20 shows a tubular inserter900 comprising a shaft 902 with a fitted tip 904. The tip 904 is adaptedto receive an implant, and the inserter with the implant is insertedover the pin and into the SI joint. An instrument can be used to slidethe implant from the tip of the inserter into the passageway created bythe cutting component. The inserter tip 904 can comprise, for example, aclip or notch to snap onto the implant while the implant is beingscrewed into place to allow the inserter to be disengaged after theimplant is inserted into the joint. An inserter for a spinal fusion cageis described further in U.S. Pat. No. 4,961,740 to Ray et al., entitled“V-Thread Fusion Cage and Method of Fusing a Bone Joint,” incorporatedherein by reference.

b. Syringes

Syringes can be used to place filler material within the SI joint. Afterthe implant is placed into the passageway created by one or more of thecutting components, the existing passageway can be filled with fillermaterial. The syringe can also be inserted over the pin and into thepassageway, and the barrel pushed to release the filler material intothe joint, e.g. SI joint. FIG. 21 shows a syringe 1000 comprising abarrel 1004 within a body 1002 that has a tip 1006 for directing fillermaterial.

B. Jigs

Jigs can be used to stabilize the incision location through providing astructure that rests on the patient's back or other appropriate locationor on other instruments with a hole leading into the site of theprocedure. Although a single immobilization element can be implantedwithin the SI joint, generally multiple immobilization elements areimplanted within the SI joint. For inserting multiple immobilizationelements within the SI joint, multiple pins are inserted within the SIjoint to mark the locations at which the implants are to be inserted.Some jigs facilitate the placement of multiple implants throughproviding multiple incision sites with a fixed appropriate relativespacing. Suitable jigs and other placement devices include, for example,gunsight spacers, triangular jigs, universal/articulated jigs, and thelike.

FIGS. 15-19 show several particular embodiments of jigs. As shown inFIG. 15, a gunsight device 810 for placing multiple pins within the SIjoint. The gunsight spacer comprises two tubular portions 812 connectedby a connecting bar 814. The connecting bar 814 has a length such thatthe centers of the proximal openings of the tubular sections are fromabout 18 millimeters to about 22 millimeters to place implants at acorresponding distance away from each other. Each of the tubularportions comprises a channel 816 that connects with an opening in theconnecting bar to receive a pin. The tubular portions have differentlengths. The longer tube is placed over a pin at a first implant site todetermine the placement of the subsequent pin at a subsequent implantsite.

Single site jigs can be used to stabilize the implant site along thepatient's back to facilitate performing the procedure. FIGS. 16 and 17show two different configurations of single site jigs. In FIG. 16, jig820 comprises a body portion 822 and a removable slug 824. Body portion822 has three channels 826 near the respective three corners of the bodyportion, one of which is located in removable slug or bushing 824. Thethree channels extend from the top surface through the bottom surface ofthe body portion for the placement of a pin, and the three channels mayor may not have the save diameter as each other. Removal of the slug orbushing results in a larger channel 828 through which tools can beintroduced to the selected location in the SI joint.

In FIG. 17, the jig 830 comprises a body portion 832 and a slug 834. Jig830 has two channels 836 near the corners of the body portion extendingfrom the top surface through the bottom surface of the body portion. Oneof channels 836 pass through removable slug or bushing 834. The twochannels 836 may or may not have the same diameter as each other.Removal of the slug or bushing 834 from body portion 832 results in alarger channel 838 through which tools can be introduced to the selectedsite at the SI joint. The channels or pin holes 826, 836 that do notpass through the slugs 824, 834, respectively, are used for anchoringpins that help to hold the jig in place on the patient. In someembodiments, the anchoring pins can be placed slightly into the iliumwith a sharp tip for particular stability. Screws 839 can be used tosecure the jig to the anchor pins during the procedure.

FIGS. 18-19 show two different configurations of a jig designed for theplacement of multiple implants. Each of the jigs comprises three holesfor inserting pins and/or cannulated tools. In FIG. 18, the universalguide 840 comprises a central portion 842, wing portions 844, horizontalaxes 845 and vertical axes 847. Wing portions 844 have limitedrotational motion in two planes relative to central portion 842. Centralportion 842 comprises a channel 846, and wing portions 844 each comprisea channel 846. Channels 846 can be adapted to receive a removablebushing or slug as described with respect to FIGS. 16 and 17 forpositioning pins into the SI joint. Removing the bushing or slug openschannels 846, which is suitable for introducing tools into the SI joint.The channels extend from the top surface of the body portion or each ofthe pieces to the bottom surface of the body portion or each of thepieces.

In FIG. 19, jig 860 comprises three connecting cylindrical tubes withone tube 862 atop two tubes 864. Each of the bottom cylinders connect atone edge with the top cylinder. Cylindrical tubes 862 have a channel866. Channels 866 can be adapted to receive a bushing or slug, which canhave a channel for a pin. With the bushing removed, tubes 862, 864 canprovide for delivery of tools wider than pins to a selected location inthe SI joint. Jigs with multiple bores for the placement of multipleimplants can facilitate and speed the implantation of multiple implantssince a single jig needs to be placed and measurements for subsequentimplants does not need to be made.

C. Immobilization Elements

The immobilization element can be, for example, bone graft material,titanium metal fragments, a dart, a shim, a wedge, a nail, a screw, orthe like, or combinations thereof. The immobilization element can becannulated. These implants generally can be delivered using the toolsand preparation procedures described herein. An improved implant for thesacroiliac joint is a tapered screw. Tapered screws for sacroiliacimmobilization/fusion are also described in the present inventor'scopending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/797,481, filed on Mar. 10,2004, entitled “Sacroiliac Joint Immobilization,” and U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 11/879,536, filed Jul. 17, 2007, entitled “BoneScrews and Particular Applications to Sacroiliac Joint Fusion,” both ofwhich are hereby incorporated herein by reference.

In general, the tapered screws can have tapered cores, tapered threadsor both. While a taper can increase the incremental displacement of theimplant from the tip toward the head, other parameters can similarlyincrease the thread displacement along the length of the implant. Forexample, threads can have increased displacement through an increase inthickness that correspondingly increases displacement resulting fromincreased thread volume.

In general, the implants/screws can be formed from any suitablebiocompatible material. The material can be biologically effectivelyinert or can impart specific desired biological effects, such as throughthe elution of bone morphogenic protein. Suitable biocompatiblematerials can include, for example, metals, such as stainless steel,tantalum and titanium, rigid polymers, such as polycarbonates andpolyetheretherketone (PEEK), ceramics, such as alumina, or composites,such as carbon composites or carbon fiber composites. In someembodiments, the screws can comprise a bioresorbable polymer, such aspoly(hydroxyacids), poly(epsilon-caprolactone), polylactic acid,polyglycolic acid, poly(dimethyl glycolic acid), copolymers thereof andmixtures thereof. The screws can be formed, for example, usingconventional machining, molding or the like. The screw or its surfacecan be porous. For example, porous tantalum is commercially availablefor forming the screw. In addition, synthetic bone materials and/orsterile bone materials, either allograft or xenograft materials, can beused to form the implantation elements. Suitable synthetic bone materialincludes, for example, coral and calcium compositions, such ashydroxyapatite, calcium phosphate and calcium sulfate.

In some embodiments, the implant can be formed from a bio-resorbablepolymer a natural or synthetic bone material or a combination thereofand a bioactive agent that stimulates bone development, such as BMP. TheBMP can be blended with the material prior to molding, casting orotherwise formed into the implant or portion thereof. Generally, if aportion of the implant is formed from the BMP blended with bioresorbablypolymer or bone material, this portion can be a support portion, i.e., aportion that provides mechanical integrity to the implant. Inappropriate embodiments, as the resorbable polymer biodegrades, bonereplaces the implant material. Similarly, for implants formed from thebone material, the implant becomes incorporated into the new bone thatforms as a result of the bioactive agent.

Optionally, a bioactive agent can be coated on the surface of theimmobilization element. To coat the immobilization device with thebioactive agent, the device can be dipped in a composition comprisingthe bioactive agent, sprayed with a composition comprising the bioactiveagent, painted with the bioactive agent, and/or coated with otherprocesses, such as those generally known in the art. If the coatingcomposition comprises a solvent, the solvent can be allowed to evaporateafter applying the coating composition. The bioactive agent can beapplied alone as a coating composition or with another agent to controlthe elution of the agent. The agent can be applied from a solution witha solvent that can evaporate following the application of the coatingsolution. Also, the bioactive agent can be combined with a controlrelease agent, such as a biodegradable polymer that gradually releasesthe bioactive agent as the polymer degrades within the patient.Biocompatible, biodegradable polymers are known in the art, such aspolylactic acid, poly(glycolic acid) and copolymers and mixturesthereof. A binder may or may not be included to control the elution fromthe coating. Furthermore, the bioactive agent can be injected orotherwise delivered in the vicinity of the immobilization device. Thebioactive agent can be combined with a suitable biocompatible carrier,such as commercially available buffered saline or glycerol.

Suitable biologically active agents include, for example, bonemorphogenic protein (BMP) and cytokines. BMP mediates the formation andhealing of bone, cartilage, tendon and other bone related tissues. Onehuman BMP polypeptide is described in detail in Published U.S. PatentApplication Serial Number 2003/032098 to Young et al., entitled “BoneMorphogenic Protein,” incorporated herein by reference. Suitablecytokines include, for example, human chemokine alpha 2, which iseffective to stimulate bone marrow growth. A human cytokine, humanchemokine alpha 2, is described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,479,633 to Ni et al.,entitled “Chemokine Alpha 2,” incorporated herein by reference.

III. Procedure for Immobilization and Extraction

A variety of procedures can effectively make use of the tools andimmobilization elements described herein. The procedures can be openprocedures in which a larger incision is made to move tissue such thatthe joint is exposed and in view. In some embodiments of particularinterest, the procedure is a less invasive procedure performed through acannula or the like to provide more limited access to the joint througha small incision. Less invasive procedures are desirable since smallincisions impose less injury to the patient from the procedure and thuscorrespondingly can have shorter recovery times. Generally, the toolsdescribed herein are designed to facilitate the closed procedures for SIjoint immobilization. The procedures are directed to immobilizing the SIjoint upon a determination that such a result is indicated. Similarprocedures can be performed for removing an implant from the SI joint.

In some embodiments, an immobilization element is placed within the SIjoint in contact with adjacent bone to distract the joint and tocontribute to joint immobilization. In general, it can be desirable toremove at least a top layer of the bone at the immobilization pointprior to immobilization to expose an inner portion of the bone tostimulate the bone healing process that can promote bone formation at oraround the immobilization element. This exposure of the bone can beperformed using drilling, cutting, scraping or the like using cuttingcomponents described above. Biologics, such as bone morphogenic protein,can be used to stimulate bone growth in the vicinity of the procedure,and this bone growth can contribute to fusing of the joint, whichcorresponds with effectively complete immobilization of the joint.

Less invasive procedures generally involve small incisions generally nomore than 4.0 cm in length and in some embodiments no more than 2.5 cmacross. One or multiple cuts through the tissue can be performed withscalpels or the like. The procedure can generally be organized in termsof a) locating a selected position in the joint, b) preparing the jointfor immobilization and c) placement of immobilization elements.Positioning within the joint can be established using a pin or the like.Once the pin is in position, a jig can be used to stabilize the locationalong the patient's back in the vicinity of the incision and tofacilitate the introductions of instruments into the site. In someembodiments, the jig can facilitate the placement of additional implantsrelative to an initial implant location.

Based on an image of the site, pins, such as blunt pins, can be insertedto mark the edges of the joint along the patient's back. Based on thelocation of the marked edges of the joint, a pin can be inserted intothe patient for locating the SI joint. A blunt pin can be used todetermine the location of the SI joint more safely than the sharp pinsince the blunt pin is less susceptible to accidental insertion past thejoint, which can result in injury to nerves and/or blood vessels. Theposition of the pin can be checked with imaging, such as x-ray imaging.In some embodiments, the operating room or a nearby location can beequipped with a CT-scan machine that can image the pin placementrelative to the adjacent bones from a wide range of angles.Alternatively or additionally, some operating rooms are equipped withx-ray devices on a moveable arm such that images of the pin can be takenat several selected angles. With a fixed orientation x-ray apparatus, arange of angles can be imaged by moving the patient relative to theapparatus. In this way, the orientation of the pin can be verified withrespect to desired placement within the joint.

Although optional, a sizer can be useful for sizing the SI joint andcentering the pin. Referring to FIG. 22, a sizer 710 is inserted overthe blunt pin 510 and through the extra-articular recess and into thejoint. The sizer can be replaced with a different sized sizer if themedical professional determines that the originally selected sizer doesnot fit into the joint properly. Once a sizer is selected with a propersize to insert a reasonable distance into the joint with a snug feel,the sizer helps orient the pin straight into the joint. Once the pin andsizer are positioned, the sizer can be used to guide cannula(e) into theSI joint by sliding the cannula(e) over the sizer. The positioning ofthe sizer and pin ensures that the inserted cannula(e) are positionedevenly relative to the pin once the sizer is removed. In someembodiments, with the desired number of cannula(e) inserted, the bluntpin can be removed and replaced with a sharp pin that can safely gofurther into the joint since the orientation has been confirmed. A depthguide can be used with either or both pins to limit the distance ofentry of the pins into the joint. Then, the sizer can be removed. If thecannulae are inserted with the sizer in place, generally a filler is notused, while in alternative embodiments, the cannulae can be insertedwith the assistance of a filler if a sizer was removed or not used.

Cannula(e) can be placed over the pin and sizer into the SI joint withthe help of a filler. The cannulae and filler can be hammered into thejoint to anchor a cannula with prongs into the joint. The filler snuglyfits within the cannula to support the cannula to prevent bending of thecannula when the cannula is hammered into the joint. Referring to FIG.23, filler 410 is used to support the cannulae 320,340 while thecannulae are being inserted into the joint. A jig 800 further supportsthe orientation at which the cannulated tools, and a pin is insertedinto the joint with an anchoring pin 510 in the ilium supporting jig 800relative to the SI joint. Referring to FIG. 24, a filler 410 is removedfrom the sharp pin 500 and cannula(e) 300, leaving the pin 500 andcannula(e) 300 in place, although a section of the cannula is removed toprovide for visualization of the pin.

A plurality of nested cannulae with prongs can be put into place eithersimultaneously and/or sequentially. In some embodiments, cannulae withtangs or prongs can be used to direct the cannulae toward the ilium andaway from the sacrum, such that cutting components inserted within thechannel of the cannulae cut into harder ilium bone rather than thesofter sacrum bone. More than one cannula can be used to adapt to thevarious sizes of the cutting components, implants, etc. For example, aninner cannula with tangs and outer cannula with tangs can be used,forming sequentially larger channels around the pin. If more space isneeded for a cutting component, implant, or other tool to access the SIjoint, the inner cannula with tangs can be removed, leaving an outercannula with tangs to guide additional tools. This process can berepeated if desired and if there were more than two cannulae placed inthe site.

Once the desired number of cannulae is in place, the site can beprepared for inserting the implant and/or filler materials or removal ofan implant. For example, a cannulated drill bit, or the like can be usedto cut into the bone around the pin position with the pin receivedwithin the channel of the cannulated drill element. The drillingprocedure prepares a hole or otherwise decorticates the bone around thejoint as a site for placement of immobilization elements. Referring toFIG. 25, a drill element 420 is used to create a passageway into the SIjoint through which the immobilization element is implanted. The drillelement is inserted within the channel(s) of the cannula(e). In someembodiments, the drill bit is inserted over a pin such that the drillbit is guided by both the pin and the cannula, and the drill bit canhave a bushing or the like to steady the drill bit within the cannula. Amotorized drill can replace a manual drill design if desired.

The desired immobilization element can then be placed in the SI joint atthe pin position such as with an optional cannulated inserter. Acannulated inserter comprises a channel for receiving the positionedpin. If an inserter is not cannulated, the pin can be removed prior touse of the inserter. The cannulated inserter can be releasably attachedto an implant for delivery of the implant, and the ensemble can be slidover the pin or otherwise placed into the SI joint through the cannula.Referring to FIG. 26, a cannulated inserter 900 comprises a tip forreceiving the immobilization element. The inserter with theimmobilization element is inserted within the channel of the cannula(e).The T-handle as described being used with the sizer above can be usedwith the inserter to help push the inserter through the channel of thecannula(e). Optionally, a syringe with filler material and/or biologicscan be inserted over the pin or following removal of the pin, and intothe SI joint to apply material into the passageway, such as after theimmobilization element is delivered. In some embodiments, the syringecan have a channel for delivery over the pin. Referring to FIG. 21, aneedleless syringe comprises a barrel within a cylinder for deliveringthe filler material. The syringe is delivered through the channel of thecannula(e) with the pin removed. The pin may or may not be removedfollowing the delivery of the immobilization element and/or fillermaterial. In some embodiments, the pin may be cut down if desired.Following deployment of the immobilization element(s) and any additionaltreatment materials, the incision is then closed.

A series of immobilization elements can be placed along the joint usingeither an open procedure or a set of less invasive procedures. Forexample, the series of immobilization elements can be placed in a row inthe joint. In this way, two, three, four or more immobilization elementscan be placed along the SI joint. The jigs discussed above can be usedto place multiple pins and/or cannulated tools into the SI joint.

As for placing the cannulated tools into the SI joint, a jig can have aremovable bushing or slug with a channel sized to accept a pin such thata pin can be inserted through the slug with the jig positioned on thepatient. The removable bushings or slugs can be removed from the boresof the jigs to provide a bigger bore for the cannulated tools. The jigcan be repositioned for additional placement of implants or the jig canhave a plurality of channels for the placement of multiple implantsthrough the jig without repositioning.

The procedure described above can be adapted for removing or extractingan implant from a joint, e.g., the SI joint. To perform the removalprocedure, a guide pin can be placed within the implant in the joint.Imaging can be used to locate the implant in the joint to guide theinsertion of the pin within the implant. A sizer, depth guide, and sharppin can be used if desired to obtain proper placement of the pin. One ormore cannula can be inserted into the joint so the cutting componentscan accurately access the implant in the joint. For example, acannulated drill can be used to drill within the cannula and into theimplant, gripping the implant and drilling the implant out, such as witha reverse rotation and/or reverse threads relative to the initialrotation for placing the implant into the joint. Alternatively, thecutting components can be used to create a passageway near and/or withinthe implant, and the cutting components can be used to release theimplant. After the implant is removed, a different implant or no implantcan be placed in the same or different location. Regardless, thepassageway created into the SI joint can be filled with a fillermaterial using a syringe if desired, following removal of the implant.

Packaging

The tools described above can be distributed in a kit for use by amedical professional. Kits provide a convenient and efficient approachto the distribution of equipment for the performance of a selectedembodiment of the procedure. Combinations of tools for a particularprocedure can be conveniently arranged in a kit such that tools to beused together are available to the physician/health care professionalperforming the procedure. These tools may be sold individually, as a setwith certain selected tools, or together with all the tools. However,selected tools may be sold together as assembled by the manufacture orvendor or selected in a customized fashion by the consumer. For example,the immobilization elements and/or alignment components can be sold asan accessory separately from the kit and from each other.

Generally, the kit can be distributed with the tools in a container. Thetools can be sterilized prior to use. The tools are generally reused.Recycled/reusable components are generally formed from a material thatcan be subjected to an appropriate sterilization approach withoutdamage. Reusable components are generally formed from a material thatcan be subjected to an appropriate sterilization approach withoutdamage.

Generally, the immobilization elements and/or alignment components aresold separately from the tools and each other. The containers holdingimmobilization elements can have a sterile interior. The sterilizationcan be performed by any approach in the art, which can be based, forexample, on radiation, chemicals and/or sterile process. Clearly,immobilization elements are generally left with the patient and are notreused.

Each of these kits (e.g. kits with selected tools, kits with alignmentcomponents, kits with immobilization elements, etc.) can also includeappropriate instructions, warnings, and/or labeling.

The embodiments above are intended to be illustrative and not limiting.Additional embodiments are within the claims. Although the presentinvention has been described with reference to particular embodiments,workers skilled in the art will recognize that changes may be made inform and detail without departing from the spirit and scope of theinvention. The incorporations by reference above are intended toincorporate the full disclosures of the references to the extent thatthe incorporated subject matter is not inconsistent with the explicitdisclosure herein, which will not be altered by any incorporation byreference, as well as to incorporate the disclosures with respect to thespecific issues referenced in the incorporation.

What is claimed is:
 1. A set of tools for an orthopedic procedurecomprising: a first pin; a first cannula comprising a first end, asecond end having a circumference, a substantially cylindrical drillchannel extending along a length of the first cannula between the firstend and the second end and forming a first opening at the first end anda second opening at the second end, and projections extendingsubstantially similar distances from an edge of the first cannula at thesecond end and positioned along the circumference of the second openingwherein each of the projections have a first edge and a second edge thathave a projected width between the first and second edges and arealigned for the respective first edges to engage one side of a joint andthe second edges aligned to engage an opposite side of the joint whenthe projections are inserted into the joint with a body portion of thefirst cannula remains extending outward from the joint and wherein theprojections are asymmetrically distributed around the drill channel ofthe first cannula; a first sizer comprising: a shaft having a shaft borethat has a size to receive the first pin and an outer surface that fitswithin the drill channel of the first cannula, and a tapered tip securedto the shaft of the first sizer, the tapered tip having an outer surfacethat fits within the drill channel of the first cannula and having a tipbore that has a size to receive the first pin and aligned with the shaftbore of the first sizer; and a drill bit comprising a shaft having aconduit for receiving the first pin, a tip with cutting flutes and anouter surface that fits within the drill channel of the first cannula.2. The set of tools of claim 1 further comprising a positioning guidecomprising a plurality of channels with a size to accept the firstcannula and a plurality of bores each sized to receive a pin wherein arelative position of the plurality of channels provides for sequentialplacement of implants.
 3. The set of tools of claim 1 further comprisinga depth guide comprising a body with a conduit for receiving the firstpin and a fastener for fastening the depth guide to the first pin at aselected position along the first pin.
 4. The set of tools of claim 1wherein the shaft of the first sizer comprises a first end and a secondend, a handle releasably attached to the first end of the shaft of thefirst sizer and the tapered tip attached to the second end of the shaftof the first sizer.
 5. The set of tool of claim 1 wherein the shaft ofthe drill bit comprises a section with a wider diameter relative to thetip of the drill bit where the wider diameter is sized to fit within thedrill channel of the first cannula.
 6. The set of tools of claim 1wherein the first pin comprises a blunt tip and a diameter along a shaftof the first pin and the set of tools further comprising a second pinwith a diameter approximately equal to the diameter of the first pin andwith a sharp tip.
 7. The set of tools of claim 1 wherein insertion ofthe projections into the joint displaces the drill channel having acenter relative to the joint such that the center of the channel is notcentered over the joint.
 8. The set of tools of claim 1 furthercomprising a cannulated inserter having an outer surface that fitswithin the drill channel of the first cannula.
 9. The set of tools ofclaim 8 wherein the cannulated inserter comprises a first end configuredfor releasable attachment to an immobilization element.
 10. The set oftools of claim 3 wherein the fastener is a clamp or a bolt.
 11. The setof tools of claim 1 wherein the drill bit comprises length markingsalong the drill bit shaft.
 12. The set of tools of claim 1 wherein thefirst sizer tip is releasably secured to the shaft of the first sizer.13. The tool set of claim 1 comprising an implant for placement into asacroiliac joint of a human patient, the implant comprising a corehaving threads spiraling around the core, a channel extending throughthe core and sized to receive the first pin, and an outer surface sizedto fit within the drill channel of the first cannula and to fit securelyinto the sacroiliac joint following drilling with the drill bit andsizing with the first sizer.
 14. The set of tools of claim 1 comprising:one or more additional cannula having a selected set of sizes differentfrom the first cannula, each of the one or more additional cannulacomprising a first end, a second end, a substantially cylindrical drillchannel extending along a length of the one or more additional cannulabetween the first end and the second end and forming a first opening atthe first end and a second opening at the second end wherein thedifferent sized cannula have corresponding different drill channeldiameters from each other, and projections extending from an edge of theone or more additional cannula at the second end, each projectioncomprising a first edge and an opposite second edge and positioned alongthe circumference of the second opening to support a first side of ajoint on the first edges and an opposite side of the joint on the secondedges when the projections are inserted into the joint; one or moreadditional sizers, each of the one or more additional sizer comprising ashaft having a shaft bore that has a size to receive the first pin, andan outer surface that fits within the drill channel of a correspondingcannula, and a tapered tip secured to the shaft of the one or moreadditional sizer, the tapered tip having an outer surface that fitswithin the drill channel of the corresponding cannula and having a tipbore that has a size to receive the first pin and aligned with the shaftbore of the one or more additional sizer.
 15. The tool set of claim 14comprising a corresponding set of implants for placement into asacroiliac joint of a human patient, each implant comprising: a corehaving threads spiraling around the core, a channel extending throughthe core and sized to receive the first pin, and an outer surface sizedto fit within the drill channel of the corresponding cannula and to fitsecurely into the sacroiliac joint following drilling with the drill bitand sizing with the first sizer.
 16. A set of tools for an orthopedicprocedure comprising: a first pin; a first cannula comprising a firstend, a second end having a circumference, a substantially cylindricaldrill channel extending along a length of the first cannula between thefirst end and the second end and forming a first opening at the firstend and a second opening at the second end, and projections extendingsubstantially similar distances from an edge of the first cannula at thesecond end and positioned along the circumference of the second opening;a first sizer comprising: a shaft having a shaft bore that has a size toreceive the first pin and an outer surface that fits within the drillchannel of the first cannula, and a tapered tip secured to the shaft ofthe first sizer, the tapered tip having an outer surface that fitswithin the drill channel of the first cannula and having a tip bore thathas a size to receive the first pin and aligned with the shaft bore ofthe first sizer; a drill bit comprising a shaft having a conduit forreceiving the first pin, a tip with cutting flutes and an outer surfacethat fits within the drill channel of the first cannula; one or moreadditional cannula having a selected set of sizes different from thefirst cannula, each cannula comprising a first end, a second end, asubstantially cylindrical drill channel extending along a length of thecannula between the first end and the second end and the second end andforming a first opening at the first end and a second opening at thesecond end wherein the different sized one or more additional cannulahave corresponding different drill channel diameters from each other,and projections extending from an edge of the one or more additionalcannula at the second end, each projection comprising a first edge andan opposite second edge and positioned along the circumference of thesecond opening to support a first side of a joint on the first edges andan opposite side of the joint on the second edges when the projectionsare inserted into the joint; and one or more additional sizers, each ofthe one or more additional sizer comprising a shaft having a shaft borethat has a size to receive the first pin, and an outer surface that fitswithin the drill channel of a corresponding cannula, and a tapered tipsecured to the shaft of the one or more additional sizer, the taperedtip having an outer surface that fits within the drill channel of thecorresponding cannula and having a tip bore that has a size to receivethe first pin and aligned with the shaft bore of the one or moreadditional sizer.
 17. The tool set of claim 16 comprising acorresponding set of implants for placement into a sacroiliac joint of ahuman patient, each implant comprising: a core having threads spiralingaround the core, a channel extending through the core and sized toreceive the first pin, and an outer surface sized to fit within thedrill channel of the corresponding cannula and to fit securely into thesacroiliac joint following drilling with the drill bit and sizing withthe first sizer.
 18. The set of tools of claim 16 wherein theprojections are asymmetrically distributed around the drill channel ofeach cannula and wherein insertion of the projections into the jointdisplaces the drill channel having a center relative to the joint suchthat the center of the channel is not centered over the joint.
 19. Theset of tools of claim 16 further comprising a first cannulated inserterhaving an outer surface that fits within the drill channel of firstcannula wherein the first cannulated inserter comprises a first endconfigured for releasable attachment to a first immobilization element,and a second cannulated inserter having an outer surface that fitswithin the drill channel of the one or more additional cannula whereinthe second cannulated inserter comprises a first end configured forreleasable attachment to a second immobilization element.
 20. The set oftools of claim 16 wherein the first pin comprises a blunt tip and adiameter along a shaft of the first pin and the set of tools furthercomprising a second pin with a diameter approximately equal to thediameter of the first pin and with a sharp tip.